United Utilities visit AVK Syddal Manufacturing Facility

Innovation and AVK UK products and solutions were the focus of a visit from a group of 14 senior engineers and buyers from United Utilities to AVK Syddal in Hyde, near Manchester.

The visit to Syddal - the headquarters for AVK UK’s mechanical fittings manufacture and distribution - consisted of presentations about AVK’s latest technical developments and products, including the Series 36 PE-tailed gate valves and Smart Water solutions, also a tour of the manufacturing facility to see first hand how the fittings are produced.

While innovation is commonly associated with technology, product design and materials, innovation can also be identified through process change as well as seeing established products in a new light.

Fittings and Pipe Repair Clamps

AVK Product Managers explained the latest technical developments and range extensions across the Supa, Supa Plus and Supa Maxi fittings ranges.

One development of particular interest was the redesign of the AVK range of encapsulation collars, AVK Series 8001 found here. These collars encapsulate and seal leaking or displaced spigot and socket joints in ductile and grey cast iron pipes. The new design is available in sizes up to DN1200.

The guests then had a tour of the AVK Syddal site where the United Utilities delegates were able to see the recent investment in robotic welding which has significantly shortened the manufacturing cycle for bespoke fittings.

AVK Smart Water

Dave Hurley, Director of AVK UK Smart Water, took the delegates through AVK’s unique portfolio of smart water solutions, from VIDI sensors, through smart air valves, through to pressure management devices (PMD). Dave used case studies from installations and trials with UK water companies to illustrate the benefits of smart technology. Two of these case studies – Southern Water air valves, and Hafred Dyfrdwy – form the basis for AVK UK entries in the Water Industry Awards 2023. Everything you need to know about Smart Water can be found here.

PE Tailed Gate Valves

AVK Product Managers also looked at innovations across AVK UK’s valve and hydrant offer. These innovations included the Series 36 PE-tailed gate valves that significantly shorten installation times, and radically reduce the number of separate components that stores, and site teams must carry. There was also interest in the use of sandwich valves located underneath hydrants. Read more about this PE tailed gate valve here.

According to Dave Hurley,

“I believe the day was rewarding for all parties. It’s a huge positive to get client buyers and engineers together in the same room with product specialists discussing the relative merits of different products, technologies and approaches to problem solving. My colleagues and I certainly ended the day with plenty of positive feedback and requests for further meetings.”